#Washington #National Press Club #Juan Luis Font #Guatemala

Guatemala Must Stop Attacks Against Journalists

The National Press Club has issued a powerful statement calling for an end to the harassment of journalist Juan Luis Font by Guatemalan authorities. Emily Wilkins, president of the National Press Club, highlighted the alarming situation during a recent press release. Font, a respected journalist forced into exile, becomes a symbol of the struggle for press freedom in a nation facing severe restrictions.

The Context of Persecution

Juan Luis Font's troubles began three years ago when he started exposing corruption and abuse of power within Guatemala. His work led to a backlash from government officials, culminating in an arrest warrant against him, accusing him of various offenses that many view as politically motivated. In 2022, facing imminent danger of unjust detention, Font made the difficult decision to leave his home country for the safety of the United States. He is currently residing in France, continuing his advocacy for press freedom and justice.

The National Press Club's call specifically targets the Office of the Attorney General and the judicial system in Guatemala, demanding they halt their campaign against Font. The statement emphasizes that journalism should never be seen as a crime and that independent reporting is essential for a healthy democracy.

The Broader Impact on Journalism

Font is not alone in this battle against oppression. Many other journalists in Guatemala, such as José Rubén Zamora, the publisher of El Periódico, and Diego España, a reporter for La Hora, face similar pressure from the authorities. Their cases reflect a broader climate of hostility toward critical journalism in Guatemala, which has seen an increase in violent reprisals against those daring to speak out against corruption and injustice.

By publicly voicing support for Font, the National Press Club aims to shine a light on the deteriorating situation for journalists in Guatemala. With approximately 3,000 members, the club serves as a vital advocate for press freedom globally, making it crucial to stand firm against attempts to silence reporters.

A Call to Action

The plea issued by the National Press Club is clear: Guatemala must immediately cease all criminal proceedings initiated against Font. The country must work towards ensuring the safety of journalists who take the brave step of exposing the truth through their reporting. The statement from Wilkins serves as a reminder that democracy cannot thrive when those reporting on vital issues risk persecution for their work.

In conclusion, the case of Juan Luis Font exemplifies the struggles faced by many journalists who work tirelessly to expose the truth in oppressive environments. It is a call to action for international support in protecting press freedom and human rights in Guatemala. Only through collective effort can the tide of journalism oppression be turned, allowing courageous voices like Font to return home safely and resume their critical work.

The National Press Club stands in solidarity with Font, emphasizing the need for accountability and press freedom in Guatemala and beyond.